The "little Marrakech" of the Souss

Inland, east of Agadir, Taroudant sits in the heart of the Souss plain, between the High Atlas to the north and the Anti-Atlas to the south. It is sometimes nicknamed "little Marrakech" for its rammed-earth ramparts and souks, yet it has kept a much calmer pace. The Saadian capital in the 16th century before the dynasty moved to Marrakech, it makes an excellent day trip from Agadir.

The road from Agadir

Allow about 85 kilometres, roughly an hour and a half's drive. You leave the coast to cross the farmland of the Souss plain: citrus orchards, fields and the argan trees that grow in this region. On clear days the Atlas mountains stand out on the horizon. The road is easy and suits a relaxed, unhurried drive.

What to see in Taroudant

  • The ramparts, which completely encircle the medina for several kilometres. Driving slowly around them in the late afternoon, when the light turns the earth walls golden, is one of the highlights of the visit.
  • The two central squares, Assarag and Talmoqlate, where the town's life is concentrated.
  • The Berber souk and the Arab souk, known for their crafts: leather, pottery, jewellery, spices and argan products.
  • The tanneries outside the walls, smaller than those of Fez but still at work.

The medina is best explored on foot. Park near one of the gates before heading into the lanes.

Going further into the Souss valley

Taroudant is a good starting point for the hinterland. To the south, the road to Tata across the Anti-Atlas runs through stark landscapes and stone villages. To the east, the valley continues towards Taliouine, the land of saffron. These drives make for a much longer day; it is better to plan them as a separate stage, especially as the rental lasts at least three days.

Which car to choose?

Agadir airport is one of the pick-up points. Several models in the fleet can be collected there, for example:

  • Mercedes CLA 220: from 1000 MAD/day, for a comfortable round trip.
  • Land Rover Range Rover Evoque: from 1300 MAD/day.
  • Porsche Macan: from 1400 MAD/day (for rentals of 30 days or more).
  • Land Rover Range Rover Sport: from 2000 MAD/day (for rentals of 15 days or more), for the roads of the hinterland.

All cars have automatic transmission and unlimited mileage, with a minimum rental of 3 days and a deposit of 30000 MAD for these models. Return takes place during the agency's opening hours.

Book

To plan your trip to Taroudant, message us on WhatsApp at +212 646 618 020 or book directly on loccor.com from the page of the car you choose.